The Feeder Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing all feeder network operations, ensuring efficient cargo movement between regional ports and mainline services. The role focuses on optimizing vessel utilization, maintaining schedule reliability, controlling costs, and leading operational teams to ensure seamless logistics execution.
Key Responsibilities
1. Feeder Network Strategy & Planning
- Develop and manage feeder service networks aligned with mainline schedules
- Optimize routing, frequency, and port coverage to maximize efficiency
- Evaluate new feeder routes and service opportunities
2. Vessel & Operations Management
- Oversee feeder vessel schedules, port calls, and capacity planning
- Ensure high vessel utilization and on-time performance
- Monitor port turnaround times and operational efficiency
3. Cargo Flow & Capacity Optimization
- Manage container allocation between feeder and mainline vessels
- Ensure smooth transshipment operations
- Balance demand and capacity to reduce costs and maximize revenue
4. Stakeholder & Partner Management
- Lead communication with shipping lines, terminals, and feeder operators
- Negotiate service agreements and contracts with feeder providers
- Coordinate with internal departments (commercial, documentation, finance)
5. Financial & Cost Control
- Manage feeder operations budget and cost per TEU
- Analyze operational costs and implement cost-saving initiatives
- Monitor vendor performance and pricing structures
6. Compliance & Regulatory Oversight
- Ensure compliance with port regulations and customs requirements
- Oversee documentation accuracy and operational reporting
- Align operations with local maritime and trade regulations
7. Team Leadership
- Lead and develop feeder operations team
- Set performance objectives and ensure accountability
- Build a high-performance, solution-oriented team culture
Skills Required
- Financial acumen and cost control expertise
- Excellent stakeholder management and negotiation skills
- Ensure compliance with Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority requirements
- Align operations with Mawani Saudi Ports Authority regulations
- Strong familiarity with operations at Jeddah Islamic Port and other regional ports
- Understanding of import/export and transshipment procedures in KSA
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain, Maritime Studies, or related field
- 5–10 years of experience in shipping, feeder operations, or port logistics
- Minimum 3 years in a supervisory/managerial role
- Strong knowledge of container shipping, feeder networks, and port operations
- Experience in vendor/contract management
Work Environment
- Office-based with regular coordination with ports and shipping partners
- May require extended hours aligned with vessel schedules
